Preventing pressure ulcers

Definition

Pressure ulcers are also called bedsores, or pressure sores. They can form when your skin and soft tissue press against a harder surface, such as a chair or bed, for a prolonged time. This pressure reduces blood supply to that area. Lack of blood supply can cause the skin tissue in this area to become damaged or die. When this happens, a pressure ulcer may form.

Sit on a foam or gel seat cushion that fits your wheelchair. Natural sheepskin pads are also helpful to reduce pressure on the skin. DO NOT sit on donut-shaped cushions.

You or your caregiver should shift your weight in your wheelchair every 15 to 20 minutes. This will take pressure off certain areas and maintain blood flow:

Lean forward

Lean to one side, then lean to the other side

If you transfer yourself (move to or from your wheelchair), lift your body up with your arms. DO NOT drag yourself. If you're having trouble transferring into your wheelchair, see a physical therapist to learn proper technique.

If your caregiver transfers you, make sure they know the proper way to move you.

When You Are in Bed

Use a foam mattress or one that is filled with gel or air. Place pads under your bottom to absorb wetness to help keep your skin dry.

Use a soft pillow or a piece of soft foam between parts of your body that press against each other or against your mattress.

When you are lying on your side, put a pillow or foam between your knees and ankles

When you are lying on your back, put a pillow or foam:

Under your heels. Or, place a pillow under your calves to lift up your heels, another way to relieve pressure on your heels.

Under your tailbone area

Under your shoulders and shoulder blades

Under your elbows

Some other tips are:

DO NOT put pillows under your knees. It puts pressure on your heels.

Never drag yourself to change your position or get in or out of bed. Dragging causes skin breakdown. Get help if you need moving in bed or getting in or out of bed.

If someone else moves you, they should lift you or use a draw sheet (a special sheet used for this purpose) to move you.

Change your position every 1 to 2 hours to keep the pressure off any one spot.

Sheets and clothing should be dry and smooth, with no wrinkles.

Remove any objects such as pins, pencils or pens, or coins from your bed.

DO NOT raise the head of your bed to more than a 30-degree angle. Being flatter keeps your body from sliding down. Sliding may harm your skin.

When to Call the Doctor

Call your doctor right away if:

You notice a sore, redness, or any other change in your skin that last for more than a few days or becomes painful, warm, or begins to drain pus.